State GovernmentNewsom’s final year in office begins with an $18 billion deficit. How will he address it?January 7, 2026As Gov. Gavin Newsom prepares to release his spending plan this Friday, a projected $18 billion deficit awaits. Will he raise taxes or cut spending? Either could spell trouble for Newsom’s legacy.
Health CareOn the hook for uninsured residents, counties now wonder how they’ll payJanuary 6, 2026Placer County, which estimates that 16,000 residents could lose health care coverage by 2028, quit operating its own clinics nearly a decade ago.
EnvironmentWinter storms provide a welcome boost to California’s snowpackJanuary 6, 2026 | Sarit Laschinsky | Vicki GonzalezA series of storms at the end of the year dumped heavy snow across much of the state, which was suffering from a snow drought headed into winter as warmer temperatures caused more rain to fall. Listen / download audio Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
Housing and HomelessnessSacramento is looking for over 600 volunteers to help survey the region's unhoused at the end of JanuaryJanuary 6, 2026 | Riley PalmerVolunteers conduct the Sacramento Point-in-Time (PIT) Count every two years by surveying people experiencing homelessness in shelters and on the street. Results are used to determine homeless service funding.
State GovernmentRep. Doug LaMalfa of California dies, reducing GOP's narrow control of the House to 218-213January 6, 2026President Donald Trump is lamenting the death of Republican seven-term U.S. congressman Doug LaMalfa of California, who was a reliable vote on his agenda.
State GovernmentMonique Limón becomes first woman of color, mother to lead California State SenateJanuary 5, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaAs Monique Limón becomes the first Latina to lead the California Senate, she’s also preparing to confront a looming $18 billion budget deficit.
EnvironmentLake Natoma’s beloved bald eagles displaced as storm claims nestJanuary 5, 2026 | Keyshawn DavisThe nest tree fell Sunday morning due to shallow roots and heavy rain. Volunteer Kathy Kayner found the eagles on Monday afternoon near an island and said they were unharmed.
State GovernmentGavin Newsom’s legacy: Can he deliver on unmet promises in his final year as governor?January 5, 2026Under Newsom’s tenure, health care has been expanded, but his housing goals and homelessness pledges remain unfinished. Can he deliver before eyeing the White House?
Arts and LifestyleSacramento’s musical ‘Goldilocks Zone’ offers growing artists abundant resourcesJanuary 5, 2026 | Ruth FinchSacramento offers many resources for up-and-coming artists who want to find affordable spaces for rehearsing, recording and production.
State GovernmentU.S. military action in Venezuela sparks political backlash, protests in CaliforniaJanuary 3, 2026 | Gerardo Zavala | Greg MicekDemocratic lawmakers say U.S. military strikes in Venezuela and the reported capture of its president lacked congressional authorization and relied on questionable justifications.
